Emma Wilson: Supporting Digital Design and Communication

Posted by randerson on June 27th, 2023 Posted in: NEC Profile

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As a Library Assistant, bookstore-touring aficionado, and skilled crocheter, Emma Wilson is accustomed to intertwining creative interests at Galter Health Sciences Library. Her passions for writing and information consolidation weave a vibrant tapestry of communicative support, stitch by evaluative stitch. 

Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Creative Writing from Chicago’s North Park University, Wilson worked in higher education roles with concentrations in data science and assessment. Her journey at Galter began in 2020 as a Library Assistant in the Access Services department. She became an introductory liaison for patrons and performed developmental project duties. 

Her current role entails the enhancement of current workflows and supporting staff needs through evaluative writing and communication efforts. This background bridged a natural progression toward joining the National Evaluation Center (NEC) in 2023 promoting digital design and communication goals. 

“One of the reasons I really enjoy being a part of the NEC is the opportunity that my role offers me to expand my skillset and facilitate new spaces of creativity focused on Universal Design and thinking,” Wilson said.

Further, she is appreciative of the NEC’s commitment to program development on both an individual staff and holistic project outlook. She cites its mission in facilitating an environment of quality enhancement to be advantageous for her personal and professional growth. 

“The NEC’s mission necessitates a culture of continuous improvement — of problem solving -–  and of thinking critically and creatively to improve equal access to health information. In my short time working with my NEC colleagues, I have found a work environment that is dedicated to innovation and change and uses obstacles as opportunities to further imagination and resourcefulness, which is something I really value in my daily work,” Wilson said.

Wilson’s approach to solution-based collaboration aligns with that of the NEC; this cooperation is especially imperative given the current climate of information proliferation. She is unwavering in her commitment to combat challenges that persist within Galter. 

“I believe that one of the greatest challenges we are confronted with is the spread of misinformation and disinformation. I often think about the demands of the attention economy and the impact that it has on my work to create effective and authentic content.”

To stifle these potential integrity infringements, Wilson stands firm in her personal creative philosophy.

“To me, design and communication is not just about cohesive branding or making something look better or more professional, but ensuring that the way I share information is accessible and equitable.”

Wilson moved to Chicago from Ohio eight years ago, and has resided in the city ever since. She now lives in Edgewater with her loving companion, a pug mix rescue named Alfie. She enjoys spending time exploring the city and its offerings.

“One of my favorite things about Chicago is summer sunrises on the lake and my commute on the lakefront bike trail. I also love finding hidden gem bookstores, confronting my ever-growing reading list, and starting crochet projects that may or may not get finished.” 

Whether she’s weaving through lakefront trails, a bookstore aisle, or a new crochet pattern, Wilson leads each thread of her endeavors with sparks of motivated tenacity. 

Written by Alex Miranda